BEIJING: China’s public security authorities are cracking down on illegal activities related to fandom culture, following widespread online clashes and defamation by fan groups after the women’s singles table tennis final between two Chinese players at the Paris Olympics.
In a news release on Wednesday, the Ministry of Public Security said the public security authorities’ cybersecurity departments have paid attention to the “chaotic phenomena associated with fandom culture” and announced efforts to enforce strict measures against such violations.
Fandom culture on Chinese social media involves organized fan groups supporting their idols through activities like chart boosting, comment control and monetary contributions, often leading to intense rivalries and significant social media influence.
However, in recent years, such activities have evolved into irrational accusations or even extreme clashes on social media. The news release said that since the opening of the Paris Olympics, cybersecurity departments have closely monitored online activities and implemented measures to maintain order.
On Saturday evening, following the women’s singles table tennis final, some netizens posted “defamatory comments”, it said, noting that in posts early on Sunday morning one netizen in particular slandered the athletes and coaches involved, causing “significant social harm”. –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
